What to Do When a Customer Asks for EcoVadis

If a customer has asked you to complete an EcoVadis assessment, you are not alone.
Thousands of suppliers receive the same request every month.

It can feel overwhelming, but responding well can strengthen your credibility and relationships with buyers.
Here is exactly what to do next.

Step 1: Confirm Which Assessment Applies to You

EcoVadis tailors assessments by industry, company size, and location.
Start by checking the invitation email or your EcoVadis dashboard to confirm the questionnaire type assigned to your company.
Understanding this first helps you focus only on what is relevant to your assessment.

Step 2: Gather the Required Evidence

EcoVadis relies on documented proof, not promises.
Prepare your supporting evidence across four key areas:

  1. Environment: energy use, emissions, waste management, water tracking, ISO 14001 or similar certifications

  2. Labor and Human Rights: employee handbook, diversity policy, safety procedures, grievance mechanism

  3. Ethics: anti-corruption policy, whistleblower policy, code of conduct

  4. Sustainable Procurement: supplier code of conduct, screening or audit criteria

If you already report to CDP or SBTi, reuse that data and documentation.
Consistency across disclosures improves credibility.

Step 3: Fill Any Gaps with a Readiness Template

If you are missing documents or policies, start recording what you have.
Use a readiness checklist to track which areas are complete and which need attention.
RyeStrategy offers a free EcoVadis Readiness Template that mirrors the assessment categories and automatically highlights missing items.

Step 4: Assign Clear Owners

The most successful submissions involve a team effort.
Assign one person to each topic area:

  • HR or People Operations for Labor and Human Rights

  • Finance or Procurement for Ethics and Procurement

  • Operations or Sustainability for Environment

Keep all materials in one shared folder so updates are easy when you renew next year.

Step 5: Submit, Review, and Improve

After submission, EcoVadis provides a scorecard summarizing strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Use it as a roadmap for ongoing progress rather than a one-time exercise.
Scores refresh annually, giving you the chance to improve with each cycle.

Pro Tip: Use the Process to Tell Your Story

“Your customers are not just checking a box.
They want to understand how your business manages risk and sustainability.
Documenting even small initiatives builds trust and long-term value.”

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Typically four to eight weeks from registration to validated score.

  • Yes. EcoVadis offers scaled options for small and medium suppliers.

  • You may be listed as “unrated,” which can affect supplier selection and contract renewals.

  • A score of 50 or higher is average. Scores above 65 often earn Silver or Gold recognition.

  • Formalize your policies, set measurable goals, track progress quarterly, and publish updates.

Next Step

RyeStrategy helps suppliers prepare for EcoVadis efficiently.
You can access templates, guidance, and expert reviews tailored to your business.